Description
Antique pair of W. Watson & Sons Ltd binoculars, marked London 1917, with original-style leather case and shoulder strap.
The prism plate markings to read “Binocular Prismatic No.3 (MkII) x6” and serial number 55002 on one side, and “W. Watson & Sons Ltd, London, 1917” on the other side. Broad arrows are also makred on front plates. These are early 20th-century British military binoculars, dating to the First World War period.
An interesting feature is the distance/range scale visible inside the right eyepiece, which adds to their military/field-use character.
Main Features:
- Maker: W. Watson & Sons Ltd., London
- Date: 1917
- Serial number: 55002
- Model: Binocular Prismatic No.3 (MkII) x6
- Broad arrows marked on front plates
- Magnification: 6x
- Objective lens diameter: 22mm
- Individual eyepiece focusing
- Prismatic binoculars
- Internal distance/range scale on right eyepiece
- Dimensions (when open): 155mm (W) x 100mm (H) x 45mm (D)
- Weight: 650 g
- Includes brown leather case and strap
Note:
The binoculars are in used antique condition with clear signs of age and use. There is general wear to the black paintwork, rubbing to the brass edges, surface marks, scratches, and age-related wear throughout. The leather covering is present, with some wear and ageing. The leather strap is fitted and the brown leather carry case is included. The case has a red interior lining and shows normal age-related wear, marks and scuffs, but remains a nice accessory.
Optics are intact and remain clean without mould or major dusts, and binoculars achieve clear images for the age. The individual eyepiece focusing knobs work well as expected.
These would make a good addition to a collection of antique optics, WWI-era equipment, military field glasses, or British-made binoculars.
